Search

Child undernutrition persists in Cambodia despite recent progress. As Cambodia undergoes a shift in dietary consumption that coincides with economic, demographic, and epidemiologic changes, there is risk of ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages displacing nutrient-dense foods during the critical period of infant growth in the first 24 months. The aim of this study was to assess the introduction and intake of foods of low nutritional value and sugar-sweetened beverages and their association with undernutrition among children 24 months of age in rural and semi-urban Cambodia. Cross-sectional analyses of a 24-h dietary recall from a sample (n = 377) of 24-month-olds found that the majority of infants had been introduced to packaged salty snacks and sweets by 12 months of age and to sugar-sweetened beverages by 15 months. By 24 months of age, 78% of children had consumed foods of low nutritional value and 57% consumed a sugar-sweetened beverage on the previous day. Multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated that infant intake of a flavored sugary drink on the previous day was associated with over two times the odds of both stunting and wasting, and consumption of packaged sweets on the previous day was associated with over two times the odds of wasting, but no association was found with stunting. These findings underscore the need to improve educational and policy interventions to support healthy feeding practices for infants and young children.

The snack market in Thailand is growing fast, and yet it faces challenges from the growth in health-conscious consumption. Under these circumstances, it can be quite complicated for people involved in the snack-value chain to respond adequately to more sophisticated demands for snacks. Therefore, this study investigates Thai consumers' behavior with regard to snacks and its determinants. For the data used in this study, we surveyed 1077 respondents using a questionnaire. Based on a five-point scale, the questions covered respondents' snack consumption behavior and revealed their preference for additional payment regarding three aspects of snacks: safety and standards, quality, and carcinogen-free snacks. According to an ordered logistic regression, the results show that people's awareness of food safety and nutrition, and their health consciousness, increase their willingness to pay extra for better-quality snacks. Advertisements and people's recognition of input sources could also play an essential role in influencing consumers' preferences. These findings should provide insights for policymakers and producers to catch up with the new demand trend in the Thai snack market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoplastic extrusion is important in processing a wide variety of food products. In this paper, the effects of different extrusion conditions, addition of vegetable oil and the food matrix itself on the physical and sensory characteristics of corn snacks and meat analogs were evaluated. Cysteine and butyric acid (cheese aroma precursors) and thiamine (a meat aroma precursor) were added to corn grits and soy protein concentrate, respectively, before extrusion. For each matrix, three combinations of moistures of the raw material and extrusion temperatures were used and, after extrusion, vegetable oil was added to one portion of each product and not to another one. The extrusion conditions and the addition of oil affected the physical properties and sensory characteristics of corn snacks more while they had less influence on the properties of the meat analogs. There were similar correlations between the physical and sensory variables, independent of the food matrix used. The sensory acceptance stood out for samples from intermediate and less severe extrusion conditions and with added oil, showing that these factors have an impact on the physical properties and sensory characteristics, with little effect from the food matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This viewpoint article presents an opinion about snacks made with lupin species. The nutritional quality of cereal-based snacks increased significantly when lupin was added. For instance, the protein and fibre content of lupin snacks could be as high as 55.7% and 8.3% respectively, soluble fibre as high as 61.2% of total fibre, and protein digestibility close to that of casein. As for sensory evaluation, some lupin snacks were ranked even better than controls. Moreover, some lupin snacks had similar or improved rheological behaviour with respect to controls. For instance, expansion indices of 11 versus 3 for controls. In summary, by adjusting formula and processing conditions, it is possible to obtain, at the same time, a healthy and tasty snack with very good machinability and rheological behaviour. This could improve the image and concept of snacks by providing an excellent opportunity for improving the diet quality of habitual consumers of snacks. This point of view also provides suggestions for improving the nutritional, rheological, and sensory evaluation of lupin snacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Snacking is a common dietary behaviour among adolescents contributing to more than one quarter of their total energy intake; however, the relationship between snacks and diet quality remains unclear. Hence, this study aimed to examine the characteristics of snacks among adolescents with different levels of diet quality. Dietary data collected from a nationally representative sample of Australian adolescents (12–18 years old, n = 935) using one 24-hour dietary recall in the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were analysed. Snacks were defined based on participant-identified eating occasions, and diet quality was assessed using the Dietary Guideline Index for Children and Adolescents (DGI-CA). Marginal means and proportion of snack characteristics including snack frequency, snack energy density (ED), and commonly consumed foods at snack from the five food groups and discretionary foods at snack across DGI-CA tertiles (highest tertile indicating high guideline adherence) were estimated for both boys and girls using linear regression and logistic regression. Differences in means were tested using the F-test. The results showed no significant differences in the mean frequency of snacks across tertiles of DGI-CA scores. The mean ED of snacks decreased as DGI-CA scores increased in both boys (lowest tertile = 8.4, 95% CI [7.1, 10.0] kJ/g, highest tertile = 6.3 [5.4, 7.4] kJ/g) and girls (lowest tertile = 9.0 [7.8, 10.3] kJ/g, highest tertile = 5.9 [5.1, 6.9] kJ/g). As diet quality improved, the proportion of adolescents consuming discretionary (i.e., unhealthy) foods and foods from the five food group foods as snacks decreased and increased, respectively. In conclusion, adolescents with higher diet quality consumed snacks with a lower ED while lower proportion of them consume discretionary foods, and higher proportion of them consume from the five food groups. Encouraging the consumption of foods from the five food groups with lower ED as snacks presents an opportunity to enhance adolescent diet quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: nutritional interventions (NI) in schoolchildren allow to take action in health promotion, physical activity, and nutrition actions for the prevention of malnutrition. Objective: to evaluate the effect of an NI on the nutrient content in school snacks (SS) in public education schools in Mexico. Methods: descriptive, longitudinal, and prospective study with a sample of 812 children were classified into intervention group (IG) and control group (CG). Anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist circumference) were made to identify nutritional status (NS); to evaluate the SS, the food and beverages that the children took from home to consume during the break were recorded on a checklist; the NI was performed in the IG for 12 weeks with a 6-week reinforcement and the final evaluation was carried out that included NS and overweight (OW) in both groups. Results: a 1.4 % increase in overweight (OW) and obesity (OB) was observed in the IG, while in the CG it increased 5.5 %. In the SS, the CG showed a higher consumption of calories, carbohydrates, and sugars. In the intragroup analysis, the IG decreased carbohydrates, sugars. This intervention showed a small effect on the decrease of calories, carbohydrates and polyunsaturated acids of the IG compared to the CG. Conclusion: NI had a positive effect on the decrease in the energy and carbohydrate content of school snacks and therefore a slower trend in the prevalence of OW and OB in the IG compared to the CG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to develop two freeze-dried snacks from blackcurrant and different sweeteners: honey/isomalt (HI) sweetened with honey/isomalt, and isomalt/stevia (IS) sweetened with isomalt/stevia. Both snacks showed high bioactive compounds retention (>75%) and no significant changes in several physicochemical properties after 6 months storage. Fresh snacks were hard and crunchy, and the perception of consumers within liking categories was: HI: 43%, and IS: 72%. After storage HI snack showed higher acceptance by consumers (75% within liking categories) while IS snack showed a decrease in their acceptance (63% within disliking categories). The penalty analysis showed that the sensory shelf-life of both snacks would be limited by the changes produced in texture and color during storage. HI snack could reach six storage months, while IS would be stored up to 3 months. The use of diverse sweeteners allowed obtaining two different products which could be incorporated into a healthy diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Snacking is a common dietary behaviour among adolescents contributing to more than one quarter of their total energy intake; however, the relationship between snacks and diet quality remains unclear. Hence, this study aimed to examine the characteristics of snacks among adolescents with different levels of diet quality. Dietary data collected from a nationally representative sample of Australian adolescents (12–18 years old, n = 935) using one 24-hour dietary recall in the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were analysed. Snacks were defined based on participant-identified eating occasions, and diet quality was assessed using the Dietary Guideline Index for Children and Adolescents (DGI-CA). Marginal means and proportion of snack characteristics including snack frequency, snack energy density (ED), and commonly consumed foods at snack from the five food groups and discretionary foods at snack across DGI-CA tertiles (highest tertile indicating high guideline adherence) were estimated for both boys and girls using linear regression and logistic regression. Differences in means were tested using the F-test. The results showed no significant differences in the mean frequency of snacks across tertiles of DGI-CA scores. The mean ED of snacks decreased as DGI-CA scores increased in both boys (lowest tertile = 8.4, 95% CI [7.1, 10.0] kJ/g, highest tertile = 6.3 [5.4, 7.4] kJ/g) and girls (lowest tertile = 9.0 [7.8, 10.3] kJ/g, highest tertile = 5.9 [5.1, 6.9] kJ/g). As diet quality improved, the proportion of adolescents consuming discretionary (i.e., unhealthy) foods and foods from the five food group foods as snacks decreased and increased, respectively. In conclusion, adolescents with higher diet quality consumed snacks with a lower ED while lower proportion of them consume discretionary foods, and higher proportion of them consume from the five food groups. Encouraging the consumption of foods from the five food groups with lower ED as snacks presents an opportunity to enhance adolescent diet quality.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in the importance of snack items in diets, particularly among children and adolescents who enjoy them socially with friends. Chips, commonly produced through frying, have garnered significant popularity. This study aimed to assess the quality of fried coconut chips of thickness 0.5 mm and 1.4 mm, made using both sunflower oil and coconut oil. Deep frying was conducted at 160 °C for both types of oil. The findings indicated that coconut oil-fried chips, regardless of thickness, exhibited superior sensory attributes (i.e. appearance, colour, crispiness and flavour). All sensory attributes (except appearance) were rated the highest for coconut oil fried chips. The biochemical properties of chips fried in both oils were largely similar, yet coconut oil-fried chips displayed slightly better characteristics compared to their counterparts. For instance, the 0.5 mm thick coconut oil-fried chips were noted for their improved protein content and fat content, leading to a higher overall acceptability of the 0.5 mm thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because grape pomace powder (GPP) contains abundant phenolic chemicals and fibres, GPPs can serve as a filler in developing novel food products. This study examined how the GPP amounts affected a composite flour's physicochemical properties and bakery snacks' chemical, technical, and sensory properties. The experimental procedure involved replacing wheat flour (WF) with GPP at 5-20% while maintaining 100% WF as the control. The addition of GPP resulted in a significant decrease in the oil absorption capacity (P ≤ 0.05), while the rehydration index and water absorption capacity increased (P ≤ 0.05). The peak length (5.44-5.90 min), pasting temperature (70.20-80.92 °C), peak viscosity (124.72-172.80 RVU; RVU - relative value unit), trough viscosity (60.76-82.04 RVU), breakdown viscosity (69.56-93.74 RVU), final viscosity (162.70-222.30 RVU), and setback viscosity were measured. The addition of GPP to the composite flour and snacks decreased the lightness (L*) and increased the redness (a*) and yellowness (b*). The items' higher dietary fibre (DF) allowed them to claim 'high fibre content' when the maximum GPP was added. The GPP also increased the snacks' total solids, protein, ash, fibre, total phenolics content (TPC), and antioxidant capacity. The sensory acceptability of the snacks made with 5-10% GPP instead of WF was higher.

Processed food with an attractive appearance which is often sold by traders in the school environment is a special attraction for students to consume, including at SD Negeri 1 Bandar Batauga. The large number of cases of health problems such as poisoning due to children consuming food and snacks sold in the area around the school without knowing whether the food is good for consumption or not is the basis for this activity to be carried out. The service activity aims to educate elementary school-age children about healthy and nutritious food and snacks for consumption in the form of education which consists of four stages, namely observation, implementation of activities (education), evaluation, and reporting of activity results. This activity took place at SD Negeri 1 Bandar Batauga and was attended by 22 students. Service activities in the form of education have a positive influence on students' understanding and knowledge about healthy and nutritious food preparations. This is based on the results of activity evaluations which show that 81% of participants are in the good category (understand), 14% are in the sufficient category (somewhat understand) and 5 % are categorized as lacking (lack of understanding). Overall, service activities run in accordance with the stated objectives.

Background: Snack bars, a globally popular food category, contain a diverse variety of ingredients and appeal to different dietary preferences. Even though snack alternatives are gaining prominence as viable options for promoting healthy dietary patterns, the composition of certain snacks may pose sustainability-related concerns and effects on environment. This study investigates the energy and nutrient composition of fruit-based snack bars, with a focus on sustainable practices, and the significant inclusion of dates and nuts in production. Methods: Between 10 and 25 July 2023, 49 healthy bars from 12 companies, accessible in five supermarkets, underwent a comprehensive analysis. The researchers visited selected supermarkets, identified the products on the shelves, and collected information on the contents from the labels. The label information was then cross-referenced with the brands' websites. The average values of energy, protein, total fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, fiber, sugar, and salt contents of 100 g samples of the products were assessed. Group proportions were investigated through the Chi-square test. As comparisons involving numerical variables failed to meet the assumption of normal distribution, independent comparisons were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test for more than two groups and Mann-Whitney U test for two groups. The significance level was set at p

Emotions are the effect but also the cause of eating behaviors, including the purchase and consumption of snacks. As snacks become an increasingly prevalent segment of the food industry, their consumption has been linked to rising rates of overweight, obesity, and diet-related diseases. Understanding how emotional valence influences consumer attitudes and behaviors toward snacks is therefore crucial. This study explores the relationship between emotional eating and the propensity to consume unhealthy snacks, both sweet and salty. A survey of 707 representative participants revealed distinct emotional patterns in snack consumption, with choices significantly influenced by consumers' emotional states and personal preferences. Furthermore, individuals who frequently opted for unhealthy snacks typically exhibited poorer health and financial profiles.

The primary aim of this study was to examine the association between snack nutritional quality, overall diet quality and adiposity among Australian adolescents. The secondary aim was to assess the distribution of discretionary foods (i.e. energy-dense and nutrient-poor foods and beverages) and intakes from the five food groups at different levels of snack nutritional quality. Dietary data collected from nationally representative adolescents (12–18 years old) during a 24-h dietary recall in the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were analysed (n 784). Snacks were defined based on participant-identified eating occasions. Snack nutritional quality was assessed using the Nutrient Profiling Scoring Criterion (NPSC), whereas diet quality was evaluated using the Dietary Guideline Index for Children and Adolescents. Adiposity was assessed through BMI Z-score waist circumference and waist:height ratio (WHtR). Higher nutritional quality of snacks, as assessed by the NPSC, has been associated with higher diet quality among both boys and girls (P < 0·001). However, there is no association between snacks nutritional quality with BMI Z-score, waist circumference and WHtR. Among both boys and girls, the consumption of fruits, vegetables and legumes/beans at snacks increased with improvement in snack nutritional quality. Conversely, the consumption of discretionary foods at snack decreased with improvement in snack nutritional quality. In conclusion, improved snack quality was associated with better diet quality in adolescents. However, there was no association between snack nutritional quality and adiposity. Future, snack nutrition quality indices should consider optimum snack characteristics related with adiposity and diet quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Snack consumption contributes significantly to daily energy and nutrient intake. Low glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load (GL) snacks help modulate postprandial glucose (PPG) rise in prediabetes and diabetes. Masala Vadai (MS) and Medu Vadai (MD) are traditional Indian snacks made from pulses, where their GI and GL values and the effect on PPG remain unexplored. In this randomised cross-over trial, healthy adults (n=13, 19-30 years old, 22.3±2.3 kg/m2) consumed either MS, MD, or glucose solution as reference food (RF) containing 12.5g of available carbohydrate on three occasions with one week apart between each test. Capillary blood was measured at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 minutes to calculate incremental area under the curve (iAUC) and to estimate the GI. The results showed that when compared to RF, MD but not MS had significantly lower iAUC at 30-min (p=0.013) and 45-min (p=0.001). Both snacks had low peak blood glucose (p<0.001) and incremental peak blood glucose (p<0.001), wherein MD exhibited a more delayed effect than MS. However, time to peak blood glucose did not differ between the test foods and RF. MD and MS had low- medium GI (MD=47, MS=63) and low GL (MD=6, MS=8), respectively. In conclusion, MD attenuated PPG significantly more than MS in comparison to glucose solution, offering an advantage of glycaemic control. Even within similar pulse-based snacks, the GI value is important in influencing PPG. These findings will add to the GI compendium for Asian foods and will be useful to healthcare professionals in providing sound nutritional advice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Community Service & Empowerment is the property of Journal of Community Service & Empowerment and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Because grape pomace powder (GPP) contains abundant phenolic chemicals and fibres, GPPs can serve as a filler in developing novel food products. This study examined how the GPP amounts affected a composite flour's physicochemical properties and bakery snacks' chemical, technical, and sensory properties. The experimental procedure involved replacing wheat flour (WF) with GPP at 5-20% while maintaining 100% WF as the control. The addition of GPP resulted in a significant decrease in the oil absorption capacity (P = 0.05), while the rehydration index and water absorption capacity increased (P = 0.05). The peak length (5.44-5.90 min), pasting temperature (70.20-80.92 °C), peak viscosity (124.72-172.80 RVU; RVU - relative value unit), trough viscosity (60.76-82.04 RVU), breakdown viscosity (69.56-93.74 RVU), final viscosity (162.70-222.30 RVU), and setback viscosity were measured. The addition of GPP to the composite flour and snacks decreased the lightness (L*) and increased the redness (a*) and yellowness (b*). The items' higher dietary fibre (DF) allowed them to claim 'high fibre content' when the maximum GPP was added. The GPP also increased the snacks' total solids, protein, ash, fibre, total phenolics content (TPC), and antioxidant capacity. The sensory acceptability of the snacks made with 5-10% GPP instead of WF was higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tackling rising up obesity tendency, especially among kids and adolescents, is a crucial task for modern society. The reduction of fast-acting carbohydrate content and plant protein enrichment in snacks recipe is seen as a perspective strategy to prevent overweight. The existed initiates and scientific projects related to the reduction of obesity among kids are described. This study has presented the data about protein-rich snack development by using alternative raw-materials, legumes as well. The review indicates that identifying consumer orientation and co-creation strategy along new functional products development will contribute to the increased consumption of protein-enriched snacks among the young generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the nutritional quality of mid-afternoon snacks for schooled children aged 3 to 12 years in three areas of Catalonia (Spain). Methods: A descriptive observational study collected information on habits and the mid-afternoon snack of 782 schooled children aged 3 to 12 years in three cities, Barcelona, Girona, and Lleida, located in Catalonia (Spain). The children's families voluntarily agreed to complete an online questionnaire that collected information about demographic data and snacking habits in the afternoon, as well as a record of mid-afternoon snack intake over three school days. Results: A total of 2163 mid-afternoon snacks were analyzed from a sample of 764 families with 3 to 12 year-old children. Sandwiches emerged as the most prevalent choice, accounting for 41.89%, followed by pastries at 23.86%, fruit at 14.38%, and a combination of fruit and pastries at 6.29%. Of the mid-afternoon snacks recorded, 22.19% were healthy, 20.90% were quite healthy, 12.85% were quite unhealthy, and 44.06% were unhealthy. Conclusions: The nutritional quality of mid-afternoon snacks for a large majority of schooled children should be improved. It is essential to develop food education programs to improve the quality of this intake from early childhood and to consider it as an opportunity to adjust the daily dietary requirements of Spanish children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Tropical Animal & Veterinary Sciences / Jurnal Ilmu Peternakan dan Veteriner Tropis is the property of Fakultas Peternakan Universitas Papua and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Snack bars, a globally popular food category, contain a diverse variety of ingredients and appeal to different dietary preferences. Even though snack alternatives are gaining prominence as viable options for promoting healthy dietary patterns, the composition of certain snacks may pose sustainability-related concerns and effects on environment. This study investigates the energy and nutrient composition of fruit-based snack bars, with a focus on sustainable practices, and the significant inclusion of dates and nuts in production. Methods: Between 10 and 25 July 2023, 49 healthy bars from 12 companies, accessible in five supermarkets, underwent a comprehensive analysis. The researchers visited selected supermarkets, identified the products on the shelves, and collected information on the contents from the labels. The label information was then cross-referenced with the brands' websites. The average values of energy, protein, total fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, fiber, sugar, and salt contents of 100 g samples of the products were assessed. Group proportions were investigated through the Chi-square test. As comparisons involving numerical variables failed to meet the assumption of normal distribution, independent comparisons were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test for more than two groups and Mann-Whitney U test for two groups. The significance level was set at p<0.05. Results: Dried fruits, particularly date and their derivatives, are the most prominently featured ingredients (87.8%) of the nutritious snacks, followed by other dried fruits containing apple, cherry, and orange. Oily seeds are the most preferred additional ingredient (75.5%), followed by cocoa (57.1%), spices (57.1%), sweeteners, and coconut. Almonds are the most preferred variety among nuts (36.7%). Other ingredients frequently utilized in bars, such as chickpea flour and chicory root fiber. It is noteworthy that, several snack bars were including multiple ingredients simultaneously whereas others lacked certain ingredients entirely. Furthermore, combination of those ingredients were discovered to be prevalent in various snack bars. Conclusion: In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights for consumers and industry stakeholders, guiding them towards choices aligned with nutritional preferences and supporting environmental and economic sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycoalkaloids (TGAs, total glycoalkaloids), toxic secondary metabolites, are found in potatoes (110–335 mg·kg−1 DW), mainly in the peel. Colorful, unpeeled potatoes are an innovative raw material for the production of snacks which are poorly tested in terms of their glycoalkaloid content. Third-generation snacks and French fries made from red-fleshed Mulberry Beauty (MB) and purple-fleshed Double Fun (DF) potatoes were produced with the use of 1% solutions of ascorbic, citric, lactic, malic, and tartaric acids to stabilize the structure of anthocyanins in the raw material and maintain their color in obtained products. The influence of the type of acid and thermal processes, like frying, microwaving, and baking, on the content of glycoalkaloids in ready-made products was examined. Only 0.45–1.26 mg·100 g−1 of TGA was found in pellet snacks and 1.32–1.71 mg·100 g−1 in French fries. Soaking blanched potatoes in organic acid solution reduced the α-chaconine content by 91–97% in snacks and by 57–93% in French fries in relation to the raw material to the greatest extent after the use of malic acid and the DF variety. The effect of lactic and citric acid was also beneficial, especially in the production of baked French fries from MB potatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PT Cupa-Cupa Snack is a company in Pangandaran that processes fishery products into snack products, one of which is crispy squid. The number of crispy squid producers in Indonesia is a challenge for companies to develop products to produce innovations that suit market needs and maintain competitiveness. The purpose of this study was to analyze the product development carried out by the cupa-cupa snack company. The study was conducted from August to October 2024. The research method used was the survey method, with interview techniques and observations of crispy squid products that were analyzed descriptively and qualitatively. The results showed that the company has developed in various aspects, such as the addition of raw material suppliers from various regions, the use of faster and more modern production equipment and processes, changing the formulation of non-msg additives that are safe for consumption, using quality aluminum foil packaging, increasing flavor variants, and business-to-business marketing that maintains good and consistent digital presence techniques on various social media, such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, to increase market share and company competitiveness.

BackgroundEating while watching TV was found associated with unhealthy food preferences and obesity in adolescents in foreign studies, which is not clear in China. The study aims to explore the influence of eating while watching TV on food preferences and overweight/obesity in Chinese adolescents.MethodsData from 1768 adolescents (aged 12–17 years) in the 2006, 2009, 2011, and 2015 China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) was analyzed. The height and weight were measured. Mixed effect models were used to identify the associations between eating while watching TV and adolescents’ food preferences and overweight/obesity.ResultsAdolescents eating while watching TV ≥1 time/week were more likely to prefer fast food, salty snacks and soft drinks than those eating while watching TV

BACKGROUND: There has been little investigation into how the timing of meals and eating occasions associates with postmenopausal breast cancer risk. OBJECTIVE: We examined the association between the frequency of consuming breakfast meals and after-dinner snacks with the risk for postmenopausal breast cancer. METHODS: A prospective analysis of 74,825 postmenopausal women aged 49 to 81 y from the Womens Health Initiative Observational Study cohort. Breakfast and after-dinner snack intake were assessed at year 1 examination. Risk for invasive and in situ breast cancer diagnosed before 28 February 2020 was modeled with multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models according to breakfast and after-dinner snack consumption frequencies. The models were adjusted for age, self-identified race/ethnicity, education, income, physical activity, smoking, alcohol intake, diet quality score (Healthy Eating Index 2015), energy intake, diabetic status, hormone therapy, and BMI. RESULTS: During the follow-up period, 5313 participants were diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and 1197 participants with in situ breast cancer. Compared with participants who did not eat breakfast, those with daily breakfast consumption was not associated with invasive breast cancer (HR: 1.04; 95% CI: 0.9, 1.19) nor in situ (HR: 1.25; 95% CI: 0.91, 1.74) breast cancer. There were monotonic higher point estimates of in situ breast cancer for each higher category of breakfast intake from 0 to 7 times per week (P-trend = 0.04, Wald test). Compared with consumption of daily after-dinner snacks, avoidance of after-dinner snacks was not associated with invasive breast cancer (HR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.87, 1.08) nor in situ (HR: 1.12; 95% CI: 0.89, 1.42) breast cancer. CONCLUSIONS: There was no association between intake frequency of breakfast meals or after-dinner snack habits and with risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

A phenomenon in the growth aspect of the child age group is obesity. Obesity is influenced by behavior in choosing food and drinks consumed daily. The preventive efforts that have been carried out so far have focused on lecture methods and media distribution. However, an educational approach in the form of games has not been implemented. The aim of this program is to implement a monopoly game with the theme "Healthy Snacks Monopoly" to increase knowledge and behavior in choosing healthy foods and drinks. This game is played in groups, for 30 minutes, and students can buy the food and drinks provided. Monitoring is also carried out for one month through the homeroom teacher. The results obtained were that students showed an increase in aspects of knowledge and behavior in choosing healthy food and drinks. This game can be applied to teachers, parents and health workers who are responsible for the health of school children to improve healthy lifestyles, especially in choosing food and drinks.

We recently demonstrated that the consumption of mixed tree nuts (MTNs) during caloric restriction decreased cardiovascular risk factors and increased satiety. Tryptophan (Trp) metabolism has been indicated as a factor in cardiovascular disease. Here, we investigated the effect of MTNs on Trp metabolism and the link to cardiovascular risk markers. Plasma and stool were collected from 95 overweight individuals who consumed either MTNs (or pretzels) daily as part of a hypocaloric weight loss diet for 12 weeks followed by an isocaloric weight maintenance program for an additional 12 weeks. Plasma and fecal samples were evaluated for Trp metabolites by LC-MS and for gut microbiota by 16S rRNA sequencing. Trp-kynurenine metabolism was reduced only in the MTNs group during weight loss (baseline vs. week 12). Changes in Trp-serotonin (week 24) and Trp-indole (week 12) metabolism from baseline were increased in the MTNs group compared to the pretzel group. Intergroup analysis between MTN and pretzel groups does not identify significant microbial changes as indicated by alpha diversity and beta diversity. Changes in the relative abundance of genus Paludicola during intervention are statistically different between the MTNs and pretzel group with p < 0.001 (q = 0.07). Our findings suggest that consumption of MTNs affects Trp host and microbial metabolism in overweight and obese subjects.

Compliance with the technological process and production parameters is the key to obtaining a high-quality product. Given the rapid development of the food industry and the needs of consumers for products that have not been subjected to repeated technological processing, where their nutritional value is preserved as much as possible, there is a need to investigate meat products that can meet such requirements. The purpose of the study was to determine and establish the technological parameters of the production of chicken jerky. The study involved experimental research, organoleptic evaluation of finished products, determination of the amount of waste after dressing meat, physicochemical parameters of raw materials, semi-finished products, and finished products: moisture content, pH, fat content by the Soxhlet method and protein content by the Kjeldahl method. Four methods of production of chicken jerky were investigated, namely: marinating with convective drying with a change in temperature conditions during the drying process; marinating with subsequent cooking using sous-vide technology to a temperature in the thickness of meat not less than 72ºC and convective drying until ready; pre-salting of chicken meat with a ratio of raw materials to salt of 1/1, followed by marinating and convective drying with a change in temperature conditions during the drying process. The final moisture content of the finished jerky was determined to be between 20.8% and 37%, depending on the production method. The study calculated capital (2.33% ± 0.5%) and technical (12.53% ± 1.32%) waste from the preparation of raw materials for the production of jerky, and provided a method for calculating the gross weight of chicken fillet from the required net weight of meat raw materials. Waste after drying for each of the studied methods are shown, which ranged from 46.7%, to 65.03%, 68%, and 74.77%. The results of the study can be used by meat producers and restaurant establishments when planning and developing their own products, improving existing production technologies, and understanding trends in the production of meat delicacies on the Ukrainian market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe the results of a technology-integrated intervention on sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and energy-dense snack intake with third graders experiencing low income. A 2 × 2 quasi-randomized cluster-block, parallel-group experimental research design. Low-income schools in Rhode Island. Two-hundred seventeen intervention and 242 control third-grade students in low-income (89.6% and 88.2% free/reduced meals, respectively), ethnically and racially diverse (63% Hispanic/20% Black and 62% Hispanic/18% Black, respectively) schools. A 13-week in-school program held once per week for 1 hour. The hands-on, technology-integrated program used a modified version of the Body Quest: Food of the Warrior curriculum. Intake of SSB and energy-dense snacks, both salty and sweet snacks, using baseline (week 1) and postassessment (week 13) previous day self-recall. Generalized mixed modeling with nesting. Intervention students significantly reduced their SSB intake by 38% (0.5 times/d; F[1, 540] = 4.26; P = 0.04) and salty snack intake by 58% (0.8 times/d; F[1, 534] = 6.58, P < 0.01) from baseline to postassessment as compared with the control students. Findings suggest a technology-integrated curriculum is effective in decreasing SSB and salty snacks in elementary-aged students of low-income, minoritized populations. Improved dietary habits can potentially influence other facets of students' lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveParticipantsMethodsResultsConclusionEvaluate the association between ultraprocessed and minimally processed snack consumption and overweight/obesity among college students.College students.Cross-sectional study. Participants completed an online survey with questions on socio-demographics, beverages and snacks consumption, and weight status. ANCOVA and logistic regression was used; analyses were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, physical activity, and sleep duration.A total of 435 students completed all questions in the survey. Most students were female (73.3%), Hispanics (61.1%), had a mean age of 24.7-year old and 40% had overweight/obesity. Those with overweight/obesity also had higher odds of consuming soft drinks in higher frequency and quantity than those without overweight/obesity (p < .05). Never consuming unsweetened yogurt/cheese and lower frequency and consumption of fruits were associated with higher odds of overweight/obesity (p < .05).Higher frequency and consumption of soft drinks while lower frequency and consumption of unsweetened yogurt/cottage cheese and fruits were associated with overweight/obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drinking alcoholic beverages stimulates food intake and contributes to the passive overconsumption of dietary energy. As protein is the most satiating of all the macronutrients, increased levels in snacks taken with alcohol have the potential to minimize excess energy consumption. We hypothesized that swapping consumption from retail‐available standard protein (SP) snacks to higher protein (HP) snack foods would increase satiety and reduce acute food energy intake in social drinkers. A randomized single‐blind crossover trial with 19 healthy participants aged 19–31 years was conducted. Participants attended two separate testing sessions, where they ingested white wine (30 g alcohol) and were offered ad libitum access to either HP snacks with a protein‐fortified dip or SP snacks with a dip. There were no significant differences in mean food mass, food energy intake, or subjective appetite ratings between the high and SP snacks (all p >.05). Mean protein intake was significantly increased with HP snacks compared with standard snacks (p <.001). Plasma glucose median incremental area under the curve and mean peak were significantly higher with the SP snacks (all p <.05) but remained within the reference range. This study demonstrated that consumption of a higher amount of protein after a moderate alcohol dose does not result in a change in food mass and energy intake or promote satiety in healthy young adults. The potential for a simple swap to different snack types is unlikely to bring substantial benefits to social drinkers and reduce passive energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study examined the microbiological contamination of street food that consumed by children at primary. The study, specifically focused on the detection of total microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, and Salmonella sp. Microbiological analyses is one way to determine the level of hygiene of snack foods. Presence of microbes determined by using Total Plate Count (TPC), detection test was applied to detect E.coli and Salmonella sp test applied detect present of Salmonella sp. Quantitatif and qualitatif methods have been sed with sampel snacks collection were obtained street food at primary schools. TPC test results showed that 6 samples of snacks have been contaminated with microbes with the threshold of the maximum limit. Those snacks, namely G1 (batagor) 2.6 x 10-5 cfu/gr, K1 (batagor) 1.3 x 10-5 cfu/gr, L2(egg meat ball) 2.3 x 10-5 cfu/gr, M1 (egg roll) 3.8 x 10-5 cfu/gr, N (meatball) 1.1 x 10-5 cfu/gr and Q1 (batagor) 1.1 x 10-5 cfu/gr. Results Salmonella sp test indicated that there were 9 samples positively contaminated with salmonella sp bacteria. Those are D2 (chicken sausage), E1 (egg roll), E2 (chicken meat ball), F2 (chicken meat ball), G1 (batagor), G2 (fried sausage), N (meatball), P1 (nuggets), P2 (chicken meat ball). Escherchia coli detection test results all samples were declared negative. There were 6 school locations (G, K, L, M, N, Q) different snack samples contaminated with microbes, 6 school locations (D, E, F, G ,N, P) snack samples were contaminated with Salmonella sp. Those snacks were declared not recommended for consumption. Keywords: Contamination; E. coli; Microbes; Salmonella sp; Snacks Abstrak Penelitian ini meneliti kontaminasi mikrobiologi pada jajanan yang ditujukan untuk anak-anak sekolah dasar di distrik Manokwari Barat, dengan fokus khusus pada deteksi mikroorganisme total, E. coli, dan Salmonella sp. Salah satu cara untuk mengetahui tingkat higienitas dari pangan jajanan adalah dengan analisis mikrobiologi berupa uji keberadaan mikroba dengan Total Plate Count (TPC), uji deteksi E.coli dan uji Salmonella sp. Sampel jajanan hasil olahan ternak diperoleh dari jajanan yang ada di Sekolah Dasar di wilayah distrik Manokwari Barat. Penelitian ini menggunakan gabungan metode kualitatif dan kuantitatif dengan menggunakan teknik pengambilan sampel yaitu purposive sampling. Hasil uji TPC pada jajanan pangan hasil ternak di Sekolah Dasar distrik Manokwari Barat terdapat 6 sampel yang berada diambang batas maksimum yaitu sampel G1 (batagor) 2.6 x 10-5 cfu/gr, K1 (batagor) 1.3 x 10-5cfu/gr L2 (pentol telur) 2.3 x 10-5 cfu/gr. M1 (telur gulung) 3.8 x 10-5 cfu/gr, N (pentol bakso) 1.1 x 10-5 cfu/gr dan Q1 (batagor) 1.1 x 10-5 cfu/gr. Hasil pengujian deteksi Salmonella sp terdapat 9 sampel yang positif tercemar bakteri Salmonella sp. D2 (sosis ayam), E1 (telur gulung), E2 (pentol ayam), F2 (pentol ayam), G1 (batagor), G2 (sosis goreng), N (pentol bakso), P1 (nugget), P2 (pentol ayam) sedangkan untuk hasil uji deteksi E. coli semua sampel dinyatakan negatif. Dari hasil penelitian ini dinyatakan bahwa ada 6 lokasi (G, K, L, M, N, Q) telah terkontaminasi mikroba diambang batas dan tidak layak untuk dikonsumsi dan 6 lokasi (D, E, F, G, N, P) telah terkontaminasi Salmonella sp dan dinyatakan tidak layak untuk dikonsumsi. Kata kunci: E. coli; Mikroba; Pangan jajanan; Salmonella sp; Total plate count

Indonesia, the country in Asia with the highest stunting rate (ranked fifth), has a program to accelerate reducing the number of cases with Banyuwangi Regency being one of the pilot projects for the Healthy Children's Movement to Prevent Stunting Toddlers and accelerating stunting prevention issued by the Regent of Banyuwangi in April 2022. On the other hand, Bangorejo District, which is close to the south coast in Banyuwangi, means that this area has a lot of marine products in the form of fish and has cheap prices. The problem is, the community, especially mothers, most of whom are housewives, do not yet have the skills to increase the use value of these marine products. This program aims to improve skills in extending the shelf life of products made from lemuru fish and increase the use value of these products. The methods used are counseling and direct practice through training. The target partners are 27 mothers/women in Padukuhan Kedungrejo, Sambirejo, and Pasembon, Bangorejo District, Banyuwangi Regency. Training activities were held on 23 and 31 August 2023. The results of this activity were that participants had knowledge of making processed fish food which increased by 29.6%, and skills in making processed fish food which increased by 33.3%. The conclusion is that people's knowledge and skills in making processed lemuru fish have increased. The target community is able to make dragon legs and nuggets from lemuru fish.

The snack market in Thailand is growing fast, and yet it faces challenges from the growth in health-conscious consumption. Under these circumstances, it can be quite complicated for people involved in the snack-value chain to respond adequately to more sophisticated demands for snacks. Therefore, this study investigates Thai consumers’ behavior with regard to snacks and its determinants. For the data used in this study, we surveyed 1077 respondents using a questionnaire. Based on a five-point scale, the questions covered respondents’ snack consumption behavior and revealed their preference for additional payment regarding three aspects of snacks: safety and standards, quality, and carcinogen-free snacks. According to an ordered logistic regression, the results show that people’s awareness of food safety and nutrition, and their health consciousness, increase their willingness to pay extra for better-quality snacks. Advertisements and people’s recognition of input sources could also play an essential role in influencing consumers’ preferences. These findings should provide insights for policymakers and producers to catch up with the new demand trend in the Thai snack market.

This viewpoint article presents an opinion about snacks made with lupin species. The nutritional quality of cereal-based snacks increased significantly when lupin was added. For instance, the protein and fibre content of lupin snacks could be as high as 55.7% and 8.3% respectively, soluble fibre as high as 61.2% of total fibre, and protein digestibility close to that of casein. As for sensory evaluation, some lupin snacks were ranked even better than controls. Moreover, some lupin snacks had similar or improved rheological behaviour with respect to controls. For instance, expansion indices of 11 versus 3 for controls. In summary, by adjusting formula and processing conditions, it is possible to obtain, at the same time, a healthy and tasty snack with very good machinability and rheological behaviour. This could improve the image and concept of snacks by providing an excellent opportunity for improving the diet quality of habitual consumers of snacks. This point of view also provides suggestions for improving the nutritional, rheological, and sensory evaluation of lupin snacks.

Native potato starch has a semi-crystalline structure associated with a low glycemic index. Microwave vacuum drying (MWVD) produces crispy snacks under mild temperatures, reducing starch structural changes. However, blanching pretreatment gelatinizes starch, reducing crystallinity. A promising alternative is drying raw or blanched-then-cooled potatoes by MWVD. Cooling the blanched potato before MWVD aims to promote the partial return of the crystalline structure. Thus, this study evaluated how different pretreatments affect potato chips’ starch structure and physical properties. Three samples were dried by MWVD: (i) raw (MWVD-RW), (ii) blanched (MWVD-BL), and (iii) blanched followed by cooling (4 °C for 48 h) (MWVD-BLC) potatoes. MWVD-RW samples presented a higher starch crystallinity (16.9%), which disappeared in MWVD-BL samples and partially returned in MWVD-BLC (8.7%). MWVD-BL and MWVD-BLC samples presented lower bulk (74%) and crispness. On the other hand, MWVD-BLC samples presented intermediate characteristics for color, true density, and porous distribution compared to others. All samples showed high porosity (>69%) and crispy texture. Therefore, based on the quality assessment, the MWVD-RW and MWVD-BLC produced healthy and crispy oil-free chips with a potentially lower glycemic index.

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the discovery of acrylamide in food, an analysis of patents related to the mitigation of this compound in food products obtained through immersion frying was carried out. For this purpose, a comprehensive search, compilation, and information analysis were conducted using free online databases such as Google Patents, Patenscope, and Lens. The search yielded a total of 79 patents within the considered time period (2002-2022). The countries with the highest number of granted patents were the United States, the European Union, and South Korea. The patents were classified into four main approaches: raw material modification (49%), application of pre-treatments (27%), process modification (16%), and measurement techniques (8%). Among the results, Frito-Lay, an American company, stands out as the food industry company with the highest number of granted patents, totaling 15. Based on this review, it is concluded that while a significant number of patents have been granted in recent years, there is still a lag in developing countries. Furthermore, more studies are needed to determine acrylamide in starchy food matrices subjected to immersion frying different from potatoes.

This research studies the influence of the addition of defatted press cakes (from the production of hazelnut, camelina, pumpkin, and hemp seed oil) on nutritionally important components: fibre, resistant starch, polyphenols, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), and acrylamide in directly and indirectly expanded snacks. The amounts of press cakes added to corn grits were 3, 6, and 9%. Extrusion was carried out in a laboratory single-screw extruder. For indirectly expanded products (SCFX), supercritical CO2 was injected during extrusion, and secondary expansion was completed in the microwave oven. The type and content of press cake, as well as the type of product, significantly influenced total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity. Press cakes increased the contents of both soluble and insoluble fibre (from 1.94% d. m. and 1.28% d. m. for extrudates without press cakes up to 3.17% d. m. and 6.94% d. m. for SCFX extrudates with press cakes, respectively), and resistant starch was not markedly influenced by their addition. The influence of the content of press cake on HMF was not significant, whereas the type of cake and the type of extrusion influenced HMF significantly. In a raw mixture of corn grits with 3% of pumpkin press cake, HMF was below the limit of detection, and the highest content was found in the classically extruded sample with the addition of 9% of camelina press cake (580 ppb). In all samples, the acrylamide content was below the limit of detection, indicating that safe products were obtained. This research shows potential for the implementation of supercritical CO2 extrusion in the production of safe, nutritionally improved snack products. Future research might bring about the design of cost-effective processes applicable in the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pantai Labu Pekan Village, Pantai Labu District, Deli Serdang Regency, is one of the villages whose area is located on the coast. According to the research conducted, there are still toddlers who experience stunting and malnutrition, the low coverage of poverty, and the low knowledge of pregnant women in toddlers causes the growth and development of toddlers to be disrupted and this can affect their health status broadly. The purpose of this research is to apply science and technology to the community to increase knowledge and skills in the health sector, form/develop community groups in the health sector, apply research results to improve public health for the welfare of public health. This research is observational research with a descriptive research design. The research was conducted in June 2023 in Pantai Labu Pekan Village, Pantai Labu District. In this Community Service activity, the methods carried out were training in local pagan-based snack food processing for pregnant women and WUS and conducting demonstrations on making sukahitu cookies, moringa leaves, fish nuggets, fish sandwiches, rebon shrimp crackers and satay donuts. This program to increase the knowledge of pregnant women and wus starts from 4 stages, namely licensing, preparation, implementation and evaluation. The results of community service activities are that there is an increase in the knowledge of pregnant women and WUS about snack foods which can help in efforts to deal with stunting and there is an increase in the knowledge of pregnant women and WUS about snack foods. From snack foods that are highly nutritious to prevent stunting and snacks containing moringa leaves as a way to overcome anemia and breast milk production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetables are healthy foods with nutritional benefits; however, nearly one‐third of the world's vegetables are lost each year, and some of the losses happen due to the imperfect shape of the vegetables. In this study, imperfect vegetables (i.e., broccoli and carrots) were upcycled into freeze‐dried powders to improve their shelf‐life before they were formed into food inks for 3D printing. The rheology of the food inks, color analysis of the uncooked and cooked designs, and texture analysis of the cooked designs were determined. The inks with 50% and 75% vegetables provided the best printability and shape fidelity. 3D printing at these conditions retained a volume comparable to the digital file (14.4 and 14.3 cm3 vs. 14.6 cm3, respectively). The control, a wheat flour‐based formulation, showed the lowest level of stability after 3D printing. The viscosity results showed that all the food inks displayed shear‐thinning behavior, with broccoli having the greatest effect on viscosity. There was a significant color difference between uncooked and cooked samples, as well as between different formulations. The hardness of the baked 3D‐printed samples was affected by the type and content of vegetable powders, where carrot‐based snacks were notably harder than snacks containing broccoli. Overall, the results show that 3D food printing can be potentially used to reduce the loss and waste of imperfect vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome (MetSx) and its chronic disease consequences are major public health concerns worldwide. Between-meal snacking may be a modifiable risk factor. We hypothesized that consuming tree nuts as snacks, versus typical carbohydrate snacks, would reduce risk for MetSx in young adults. A prospective, randomized, 16-week parallel-group diet intervention trial was conducted in 84 adults aged 22–36 with BMI 24.5 to 34.9 kg/m2 and ≥1 MetSx clinical risk factor. Tree nuts snacks (TNsnack) were matched to carbohydrate snacks (CHOsnack) for energy (kcal), protein, fiber, and sodium content as part of a 7-day eucaloric menu. Difference in change between groups was tested by analysis of covariance using general linear models. Multivariable linear regression modeling assessed main effects of TNsnack treatment and interactions between TNsnack and sex on MetSx score. Age, BMI, and year of study enrollment were included variables. There was a main effect of TNsnack on reducing waist circumference in females (mean difference: −2.20 ± 0.73 cm, p = 0.004) and a trend toward reduced visceral fat (−5.27 ± 13.05 cm2, p = 0.06). TNsnack decreased blood insulin levels in males (−1.14 ± 1.41 mIU/L, p = 0.05) and multivariable modeling showed a main effect of TNsnack on insulin. Main effects of TNsnack on triglycerides and TG/HDL ratio were observed (p = 0.04 for both) with TG/HDL ratio reduced ~11%. A main effect of TNsnack (p = 0.04) and an interaction effect between TNsnack and sex (p < 0.001) on total MetSx score yielded 67% reduced MetSx score in TNsnack females and 42% reduced MetSx score in TNsnack males. To our knowledge, this is the first randomized parallel-arm study to investigate cardiometabolic responses to TNsnacks versus typical CHOsnacks among young adults at risk of MetSx. Our study suggests daily tree nut consumption reduces MetSx risk by improving waist circumference, lipid biomarkers, and/or insulin sensitivity—without requiring caloric restriction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food business is indeed widely attempted by entrepreneurs. The business opportunities in the food industry in Indonesia are quite high, as seen from the numerous culinary businesses that are emerging and growing rapidly. Typically, food businesses require a not- so-large capital investment, which is why many entrepreneurs are involved in it. Furthermore, food is a necessity for people at all times, which is why businesses in the food sector have many customers. Innovations related to food are also on the rise. This business provides an alternative choice for snacks for those who enjoy snacking. Since many people like snacks, this product is introduced as an alternative snack option. The purpose of this writing is to understand the development of a business with snack food products conducted by the author. This writing covers the journey of establishing the business, from planning to execution, and addressing the issues that arise. It encompasses four management aspects: operational, human resources, marketing, and financial aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the discovery of acrylamide in food, an analysis of patents related to the mitigation of this compound in food products obtained through immersion frying was carried out. For this purpose, a comprehensive search, compilation, and information analysis were conducted using free online databases such as Google Patents, Patenscope, and Lens. The search yielded a total of 79 patents within the considered time period (2002-2022). The countries with the highest number of granted patents were the United States, the European Union, and South Korea. The patents were classified into four main approaches: raw material modification (49%), application of pre-treatments (27%), process modification (16%), and measurement techniques (8%). Among the results, Frito-Lay, an American company, stands out as the food industry company with the highest number of granted patents, totaling 15. Based on this review, it is concluded that while a significant number of patents have been granted in recent years, there is still a lag in developing countries. Furthermore, more studies are needed to determine acrylamide in starchy food matrices subjected to immersion frying different from potatoes.

Ecuador has a significant genetic diversity of maize, which comes in different shapes, sizes and colors and plays a crucial role in food security. This research aimed to evaluate the physicochemical parameters of the extrusion process of two improved maize varieties (INIAP-176 and INIAP-180). The factors under study were two temperatures (140 ℃ and 150 ℃) and two screw speeds (230 rpm and 280 rpm). The applied extrusion conditions showed significant effects on the nutritional content, functional properties, texture attributes and sensory acceptability. The extruded products presented average values of 2.64% moisture, 0.61% ash, 8.54% protein, 0.61% ether extract, 1.55% crude fiber and 88.70 g/100 g were nitrogen-free extract (NFE) about dry weight of sample. Also, extrusion of the two maize varieties at a temperature of 150 ℃ and a screw speed of 280 rpm recorded high values of the expansion index and low levels of bulk density for functional properties. Instrumental texture analysis determined that the best attributes expressed as hardness, fracturability and adhesiveness in the expanded maize obtained from INIAP-176 at a speed of 280 rpm. The application of extrusion in these improved maize varieties allowed the production of high-quality snacks for the consumer.

Abstract Biscuits are the largest category of consumed snacks among bakery products, but their simple sugar and fat high content associate to low fiber content make them unsuitable for diabetics. This study aimed to formulate biscuits with low glycaemic index from the blend of unripe banana, okra and stevia leaves or jujube fruit for diabetics. To achieve this goal, unripe banana, fresh okra, stevia leaves and jujube fruits were purchased from a main market in Ngaoundere and processed into flours. Proximate composition of the flours was determined, and then, Design Expert software was used to formulate two different blends, Banana/Okra/Stevia (BOS) and Banana/Okra/Jujube (BOJ). According to the results of preliminary sensory tests done in the laboratory, three biscuits with stevia (BOS1, BOS2, BOS3), three biscuits with jujube (BOJ1, BOJ2, BOJ3), and a witness biscuit with table sugar as sweetener were formulated. After the physicochemical characterisation of formulated biscuits, animal experimentation was carried out in order to evaluate the postprandial evolution of blood glucose in rats after having ingested the biscuits, and the Glycaemic Index (GI) of produced biscuits. A hedonic test with 30 consumers was done, parameters assessed including colour, texture, taste, flavour, and overall acceptability. The results obtained show that unripe banana is mostly made of complex carbohydrates, while okra and stevia are good sources of fibers, confirming their importance in diabetic’s diet. All the biscuits produced with stevia and jujube did not raise the blood glucose compared to the witness biscuit made with table sugar. Biscuits produced with stevia leaves had a lower GI than those produced with jujube fruit among the biscuits produced with stevia leaves, BOS2 had the lowest GI, then the lowest increase of postprandial blood glucose in rats, and was the most appreciated by the consumers in terms of appearance, flavour, taste and overall acceptability. Therefore, BOS2 could be recommended as snack for diabetics. Graphical Abstract

Chips made from maize semolina are rarely mycotoxin analysed because they are classified as low-risk foods in routine legal control plans. It is essential to foresee the health risks these snack foods may pose in the medium and long term, whose consumption frequency and quantity have increased with the changing consumer behaviours during the pandemic. The most outstanding development in mycotoxin analysis in recent years has been the use of high-pressure liquid chromatography together with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) as a detector. For aflatoxin (AF) B1, B2, G1, G2, ochratoxin A (OTA), zearalenone (ZEN), deoxynivalenol (DON), fumonisin B1 (FB1), fumonisin B2 (FB2), citrinin (CIT), HT-2 toxin, and T-2 toxin determination in our samples, the LC-MS/MS analysis method with electrospray ionisation interfaces was utilised. Aflatoxin B1 levels in 22.7% of the samples (2.01-17.49 μg.kg-1) and total aflatoxins (TAF) in 26.7% of the samples (6.71-24.67 μg.kg-1) were determined to exceed the limits defined in the Turkish Food Codex Contaminants Regulation. CIT could not be detected in any of the samples. ZEN + DON + OTA was found in 21.3% of the samples, DON + TAF + total fumonisins (FUM) in 19.3%, and TAF + ZEN + FUM in 18.7%.